Hiring a demolition contractor is essential when old buildings need to get knocked down so as to make way for the development of new ones. However, before the demolition work begins, there are certain factors that a property owner should consider.

Make sure you understand the demolition company's contract

The first step when considering demolition works is to look for a suitable demolitions contractor. When hiring the contractor, it is essential to read through the contract before signing on the dotted line.

Key factors to look for in a demolitions contract include, the date the demolition will commence, the timeline under which the job will get completed, the pricing and not forgetting the after demolition services such as collecting and cleaning up the rubble.

Failure to read through the contract could lead to complications such as demolitions not meeting the required deadline or having to pay extra for debris collection.

Get the relevant permits for the demolition work

Before a demolition can commence, the local town council has to approve it. Hence, it is mandatory to contact the local council and inform them of your plans to conduct a demolition.

Before the council provides a permit, you must first apply for asset protection from the same council. Asset protection is an essential prerequisite for acquiring a demolition permit because it acts as insurance for the council's property, such as drains, sidewalks, curbs, trees or natural strips, from any damage that may occur during the demolition.

Applying for asset protection is a lengthy process because the council has to make an assessment of the intended demolition site to assess the potential damage that could happen to council property. Hence, it is advisable to submit the application before requesting for a demolition permit.

Notify utility companies about the demolition in advance

During a demolition, it is mandatory for utilities such as gas, electricity, sewers and water to get shut off by their service providers. Shutting off the utilities is essential so that no damage occurs to them during the demolition.

Hence, when planning a demolition, you should inform all the utility service providers in the area to shut down their services at least twenty business days before the scheduled date of the destruction. The advanced notification enables the utility companies to inform their clients in advance that utility service will get cut off on a particular date.

It is essential to note that if you conduct a demolition with the utility services running, you will be liable for the damages and you could end up facing hefty fines.